By themselves, they're just small moments in and around beer. Together, they're the culture we love.

no. 173

September 16, 2016

I was in Leeds last weekend for a debate concerning whether modern bars and cafes are slowly destroying traditional British pub culture. With its eclectic selection of some of the best pubs and bars in the UK, Leeds felt like the ideal place for this conversation to take place.

But perhaps this new wave of bars isn't destroying pub culture at all. Perhaps it's just what its evolution looks like.

The debate took place at Leeds Town Hall, which was also playing host to the Leeds International Beer festival. Crowds of people flocked to the various bars run by some of the most interesting breweries in the UK. In the basement was a Belgian bar hosted by the owners of the UK's original craft beer venue, North Bar, which sits a short walk from the town hall.

Post-debate, I had worked up a thirst, so settled into a De Dolle Oerbier. Things got hazy after that, but I vaguely remember making my way to North Bar for a few Orvals before waking up the next day in my hotel room.